Katy Rukin

Being a teacher is a rewarding experience as not only will I be teaching students about the exciting world of science, I also get to play a part in getting them ready for their next step in life. I have always enjoyed learning about science throughout my own educational journey so choosing a career as a science teacher felt right for me.

Doing a PGCE in secondary science meant I had a wide range of job prospects. I understood the excellent opportunities that would come with my postgraduate course.

I had been recommended Edge Hill University from multiple graduates who completed a PGCE here and who all spoke so highly about the course. The outstanding university is only half an hour from my house which meant I could commute from home.

My postgraduate degree is different from my undergraduate course in many ways. A large part of my PGCE involves going on placement where I learn vital hands on skills for teaching outside of lectures. Another key difference is I am living at home, which personally helps me keep a well needed routine and helps my wellbeing.

Edge Hill will provide you with the essential information and skills that you need so you are ready to step in front of a class. For anyone thinking about attending this course, do not worry if you don’t have any experience working with young people because I didn’t when I first started.

The top three skills I believe this course has given me are:

• Confidence, to stand up in front of a room full of teenagers and present a topic I am passionate about
• Adaptability, no class or lesson is the same and thinking on your feet is a useful skill to have
• Professionalism, which is a vital characteristic that teachers need to obtain at all times

During my degree I have attended a placement school which I thoroughly enjoyed teaching at. Building rapport with students and aiding their academic success is extremely rewarding. Completing my placements has helped me realise that being a secondary school teacher is the perfect career for me.

My favourite thing about my degree subject is going out on placement where I can learn valuable hands-on experience to get me ready for working full-time in a school.

I couldn’t speak highly enough of my course leader. She has helped me settle into a course which I felt was daunting and resolved all my worries from day one. My course leader has helped me through every step. Any questions or worries are answered promptly and help is always given.

My favourite place on campus is the lake which brings wildlife on campus. I think this is a lovely place to observe nature within campus. Also a quick mention to the campus cat.

During my first placement I was offered a permanent position as a secondary science teacher. This means as soon as I graduate, I will be employed by a school I loved working at.

My advice for others would be to attend a local secondary school for a few days to understand the holistic role of a teacher. Speaking to a science teacher helped me understand the different aspects of being a teacher. It also helped me realise that I loved the classroom environment.